Giveaway: FREE Pair of Stylish Glasses and 5 vouchers!

Hello!

Well, there's a first time for everything and why not make TODAY the first time for a GIVEAWAY?!
Okay, I've never done this before but I thought I should! I really wanted to thank you for reading the blog and took this opportunity to do so.

About two weeks ago, I posted a Relaxing/Lazy/Sick Day To-Do List/Must-Haves (wow that's a lot of slashes and hyphens), where I posted a picture of me with a pair of glasses:

Well, now you have a chance to own the same style of glasses or choose from any of the classics (click HERE to view)...

They will come with 2 cases, a cleaning cloth and, obviously: the glasses! All expenses are covered so it's completely FREE for you! They can be altered to your prescription (zero - 1.5 powered lens)  - if you don't wear glasses, then you can get the zero powered!

All you have to do is follow this blog and choose the pair you want (from here).
Then follow this to enter:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Remember, even if you don't win this, you can still get a pair free with your first purchase.

So, I hope you find a style you like, and remember you can win 10 extra entries EACH day if you tweet the giveaway!

It's open until midnight of the 8th of February 2014 - I will announce and contact the winners by the 10th of February.

Good Luck!

Bargain Deals - Happy Hump Day!

Hello!

Happy Hump Day!! This is either the day that you love or hate - depending on which way you look at it. Kind of like if the glass is half-full or half-empty! So, lets keep it positive and say today is a good day - as we're getting closer to the weekend!! Actually, for me Wednesday is the longest day, I have all 4 subjects AND have extra-ciricular afterwards - Being a college student is great (!)… haha, it's not that bad, to be honest!

Anyway, so as it is the middle of the week, I didn't want you to have the mid-week blues, so I thought I'd gather some codes for great bargains to make your day just that little bit better! Who doesn't like bargains?! So, make yourself feel good by treating yourself (or a loved one, if you want), yet not feeling so guilty because it's a bargain!

via 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

BooHoo
10% off £40+ on boohoo.com
Enter Code: PERFECT10

H&M
£5 off £11 on hm.com
Enter Code: 1304

Feel Unique
5% off + free delivery on orders over £10 on feelunique.com
Enter Code: JAN2014FIVE

TopMan
10% off Full Priced Orders + Free Delivery  on topman.com
Enter Code: TMSAVINGS

StarGlass
20% off all orders on starglassuk.com
Enter Code: BerryBloomXO

I hope these work well for you and you find great things to treat yourself with!
What's your best bargain/deal you've come across?! Also, would you like to see more of these posts?

Manicure Monday - OPI dupe Edition

Hello!

If you read this blog last week then you would have seen the post of OPI's new collection: Raw Granite. I did mention that you can dupe the shades with a bit of tweaking of the polishes you have and guess what I did? Yep, I tried it! So, obviously, you had to know, right?! haha!

Well, the colour I tried to dupe was Lapis. This is one of the new polishes out from that collection. Actually, my friend had the polish on and when I asked her she said it was from OPI's new collection - so obviously I screamed and started jumping up and down because I had posted the blog post about it the day before I saw her wearing it… anyway, so it encouraged me even more to try to dupe it!

As you know from previous Mani Mondays, I love Barry M - their quality is amazing and the price is perfect! Using a sparkle top coat - with a very light hand - achieved the diamond sparkle look that the OPI polishes have, and finally using the Rimmel Matte Top Coat made the finish matte, the same finish as the OPI polish!

Shades:
Blue = Barry M, Christmas Blue
Glitter = Barry M, Yellow Topaz
Matte Finish = Rimmel, Pro Matte Finish


I think it turned out okay!
What do you think, what's your manicure for this week? Oh, and if you would like to see a review of the Matte Top Coat, let me know!

Desk/Home Office Inspiration!

Hello!

Thank Goodness It's Friday. I thought I'd post this so you might get some inspiration to do some DIY this weekend!

Well, productivity should be full blast right now. If you're a college student like I am, then this week may have been Mock Week/Month. I had quite a few Mocks this month, luckily I did some last month before Christmas break, so there weren't as many exams as there could have been! Anyway, that means we should be studying.

However, if the area in which you work is not sorted, or doesn't make you feel happy, then you're less likely to study/work well enough, believe it or not! I find that if the area that I am working in is a mess, my mind won't work straight.

Yet you might be the type of person that likes clutter? Lets be honest, we only REALLY say we like clutter when we cannot be bothered to tidy said clutter away!

1)

I like having a nice view from my desk too. It used to be facing a wall (see a picture in this post) but that got boring pretty quickly for me! This picture was actually taken in autumn when the sun was nice and golden throughout the day. Nowadays we tend to get overcast or fog hiding that beautiful sun! 

2) 

via: 1, 2

These two desk areas are lovely. They're minimalistic, have very little clutter - which is the best way to go, and the colours are all very easy on the eye. I like the stationary and small decor pieces yet nothing overwhelming or anything to distract focus.

3)

This picture was taken at night so doesn't look as bright but I like to keep plants on my windowsill. I've heard looking at natural plants and greenery is great for your eyesight and makes you feel good. 

Green being a colour connoting success, wealth and growth, it's perfect for the study. I mean when you see them grow over the days, it's really nice! Oh, and this is the type of plant that if you forget to water it for a couple of days, it won't die… just the type I need! haha! (species: Jade Plant) 

4)

via 1,2

Both of these desks are made out of glass which give a modern, clean vibe. I also have a glass on top of my desk and love it because I can jot notes with whiteboard pens which rub out (and can be colourful). Also, because I can slide papers and notes underneath the glass so it's visible yet there's no clutter.

I got mine from starglassuk.com which provided great customer service and delivered it to my door.

They also provide mirrors and frames - which is what I like about the first image - which adds another clean vibe to the room. 

5)

Finally, creating a studious atmosphere with books and files may just make the room feel complete. 

I hope you have gotten some inspiration for your desk to get that all important work done.

Oh, and starglassuk.com have offered a DISCOUNT code for YOU - enter BerryBloomXO at checkout to receive 20% off your glass/mirror or anything! 

What can you not live without at your desk or What helps you work/study? 

Top Perfumes of 2014

Hello!

Now, if you're like me then you cannot leave the house (or your room) without a little spritz of scent to leave a waft of nice-smelling goodness around you! Whether it be a spicy, sweet, floral or fruity scent - it makes you feel good just spraying it. Okay, maybe that was an exaggeration but it's pleasant when you smell nice!

Well, the point of that was leading on to this: The Top Perfumes of the Moment (in no particular order..)

1. Flowerbomb - Viktor Rolf

I have yet to smell this but I have been eyeing it for a long time! The packing is gorgeous too, and everything seems so glam! Said to be 'a thousand flowers in a bottle'!


2. Lady Million - Paco Rabanne

The fragrance has been famous for a while now and doesn't look like it's getting any less popular. When I was in the lines for the sale shopping I had done, people around me had like 3-4 of these in their baskets and this was AFTER christmas gift exchange-time! Therefore, another one to keep an eye out for! This is said to be a woody floral with fruity undertones.


3. Our Moment - One Direction

To be honest, I'm not a HUGE fan of celebrity fragrances, I mean I won't go out and buy a Lady Gaga perfume because I like Lady Gaga - I would if I liked the scent! This one seems to be really popular right now, though! This is said to be a floral scent with a warm musky undertone.


4. Boss Orange - Hugo Boss

'Crispy Apple, white florals and woody, sandalwood heart' is what this scent is described as. Personally, the thought of having an orange smelling perfume makes me feel sick. I don't like that. You know the scent you have on your hands after peeling a tangerine? Well, I like that but wouldn't want it in a perfume bottle! So, this one is a bit of a weird one for me!


5. Daisy - Marc Jacobs

Ahh, this one is a well heard of one that 'never gets old'. Daisy is said to be 'floral with a vintage edge of violet' and said to be 'elegant and enchanting'. Well, there's two things that makes this sound appealing: the description and the packing. How pretty?!


6. Killer Queen - Katy Perry

Another celebrity fragrance. This one has very interesting packaging - the colour reminds me a bit of 'Heat' by Beyoncé! 'Sexy. Royal. Radiant.' This definitely seems like more of a night fragrance with Dark Plum as one of its' top notes.


7. Viva La Juicy - Juicy Couture 

You might as well be living under a rock if you haven't heard of this one before! The girly and super cute packaging is so nice as well as the fragrance being something to fall for! The scent being 'Wild Berries, Creamy Vanilla and Bright Jasmine' - its a super fun one to go with. I had a sample of this and it is completely used up (unlike my BVLgari one which is still more than half full)!


Well, thats the top fragrances of the moment, great ideas for gifts to anyone… or yourself!
Do you own/love any featured in this list? 
Oh, and HINT HINT: one of these fragrance is likely to be the star of another post coming soon - stay tuned! 

sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7

New OPI Collection: Raw Granite

Hello!

Happy Monday!  For the last week or so (feels like forever) I've left my nails bare - so, it's definitely time to give them a fresh coat! I was looking for some new nail colours that are out right now to give me inspiration on what colour to paint my nails next and came across this beautiful collection by OPI: Raw Granite.

You may have heard of Granite being used as one of the more expensive counter tops for your kitchen, yet heard of OPI's new collection: Raw Granite?
Well, the shades are worth looking into and reading about!

via OPI

These all have a Matte Textured finish and have Diamond Dust in them too - doesn't that sound lovely!
These polishes can either go edgy with a matte look or you can go elegant by applying a top coat and letting the diamond dust do its magic!

via source

"Lapis" and "Pewter" are the late comers in terms of this collection and have recently been released. The gorgeous gunmetal and navy shades are perfect for Winter 2014 and have already been a big hit.

I love the way these look and if you have a similar colour at home, but not in a matte finish, do what I did in my other Mani Monday post and apply a matte top coat - trust me, it does wanders and makes the polish you're wearing look a different colour! I will try it and let you know how it looks!

Oh, and before I leave you with a question of the day, let's just admire the beauty of the packing that OPI have come up with!

What do you think of Diamond Dust in nail polish? Over the top or pretty cool? 

Music Favourites of Now

Hello!

Music is the pathway to our soul. Okay, I totally just made that up but music CAN lift our spirits and make us feel good, therefore we live a great, happy life! Music therapy has been used for years to enhance mood. So, listening to music is great! I thought I'd share with you some songs that I have recently downloaded or been listening to a lot:

1. Hey Brother - Avicii

I loved 'Wake Me Up' by Avicii and this newer song is great too!

2. The Monster - Eminem ft. Rihanna 

Can Rihanna ever sing a bad song? Remember 'Love the Way You Lie' by them too? Oh and Shakira and Rihanna are set to release a song too, cannot wait!

3. Let Me Go - Gary Barlow

After watching The X Factor when Gary Barlow and Sir Elton John did a collaboration, I thought that Gary Barlows' song is really good!

Thats my top three! What is your favourite song of now?! Leave a comment!

Relaxing or Sick Day Must-Haves (ft. Firmoo)

Hello!

Cough. Sneeze. Tired.
It's that time of year. We're either sick with the flu, or just have the January blues where we wish it could be summer (unless you live in Australia or something, then you must be having a nice time!)….

This calls for a must-haves list for the days we want to stay in bed. Let me tell you, it's okay to not be doing things every second of the day. It's okay to have a less productive day, sometimes. Now - lets relax!


1. Snuggle

Snuggle up with your cosiest blanket on your sofa/couch. If you feel REALLY lazy, then just stay in bed - all is good! I love my pink rose blanket. I got it last year and it has come so much in handy during the cold months. I actually like it when my room is cold and I'm snuggled up in this!


2. Make Some Hot Cocoa

What is the cold without hot cocoa? Or a mug of coffee or tea. I love me some Chai Tea Latte, too! This makes you feel instantly better as the warmth makes your body warmer and you're left with a lovely taste in your mouth!


3. Ease off the Contacts!

I know when you go out and have glasses, you might prefer your contact lenses - but on relaxing days it may be time to give your eyes a rest and pull out the glasses. I got mine from Firmoo who have a range of designs you can choose from. These have a lovely tortoise design on the side of the frame. I love how fashionable these look, how intelligent you look (and feel) and how comfortably they fit! Also, I love that they aren't the typical rectangle as I find everyone and their mother has them! This is slightly different yet still has that chic touch. You can customise the glasses to be tinted, polarised and of course have the lens matched to your prescription - the website is super easy to use and delivery is great. You also get 2 cases and an eye-glass cloth. I really do recommend them. Oh, and if that wasn't enough, you can even try on the glasses online with a cool picture thing where you virtually have them on to see which glasses design fits you! AND you get your first pair free! Click here to see.

4. Watch some Flicks

We all know that watching our favourite shows, movies or even YouTube stars can brighten up our day and make you feel better! I love to have a catch up Pretty Little Liars day or something! It's a lot of fun and a great way to wind down! If you're feeling like having more of a movie night then that's good too - the other day I watched 'Now You See Me' and it's a really good movie!


5. Take a Bath

I love taking baths as they're so relaxing. Also, using luxurious products make your skin feel lovely and  you look and feel great! Maybe take in a book with you to pass the time while you soak!


6. Light a Candle

I could NOT miss this one out! Ahh even thinking about Candles makes me feel happy!


That's it for my must-haves for a relaxing day! If you're ill right now, I hope you get well soon - and if you just need a relaxing day.. just relax ;)
What are your Relaxing/Sick day must-haves, leave a comment?!

Motivation Monday: Lizzie Velasquez

Hello!

It's yet another Monday and I thought I'd give you a little inspiration for the week ahead, this time in form of a video!

Well, this video I saw last week and tweeted about it. I thought it was so inspirational and since then Lizzie has gotten super famous, so you may have heard of her! She was called 'Worlds Ugliest Woman' by strangers and somebody put a video of her on the internet with over 4 million views, she was strong and didn't let this bring her down. I thought this was amazing, because if that was me I know that I would shatter. I just wouldn't know what to do.

She is such an inspiration and makes us realise that we really are beautiful no matter what we look like on the outside. It's personality that counts and your looks are not what completely defines you.

I think she is gorgeous and her personality shines! Plus she has amazing hair!

So, tell me: What defines you, or what's your favourite thing about you? 

"The Vampire Diaries" or "The Originals"?

Hello!

With New Year brings New Goals, New Ideas and…. New TV Shows? Okay, no, it doesn't - but that doesn't stop one from watching good TV!

So, as we speak I am watching The Originals on TV, this being my first time and I'm not loving it - maybe because I haven't really been watching The Vampire Diaries which is the prequel to this new show. You may know that The Vampire Diaries is on it's 5th season now yet I used to watch it and then got a little bored. I have began to watch it again and thought I'd try out The Originals yet I keep getting distracted and don't like the story very much.

I am still loving Revenge, though! The story line is nice yet I feel sorry for Daniel!
Anyway, if you're like me, you may get bored of a series, perhaps too quickly - yet there are certain shows that really draw you in! I need more of those certain shows!

What's the series you cannot stop watching and really recommend? 

image source 1, 2 

Healthy, Yummy, Quick Snacks

Hello! 

New year. New, healthier, you!
So, with the Christmas and winter, we tend to have slightly overindulged with the oh-so-yum Chocolate and pies that are available! So, we need to get set on a healthier route again, right?

I, too, may have received one too many chocolate gifts for Christmas which I will need to hide away from now on!

Here are some easy snacks which are yummy as well as healthy. A lot of the time we think healthy tasting disgusting - and yes, honestly, sometimes it does! But these ideas taste so yummy, you won't think they're healthy!

1. Cereal in a Bowl - without the milk

source

I LOVE Raisin wheats by themselves. They provide a serving of dry fruit, as there are raisins inside the mini wheats. Also, they are a great serving of wholewheat and fibre. Many of us don't have enough fibre in our diets due to the fear of Carbs, yet we need the 'good' carbs in our life and fibre to help with digestion! So, Raisin wheats are sweet and crunchy. A perfect easy-to-grab snack.


2. Carrots with Hummus 

source

Carrots are veggies. Veggies are good for you! I am not likely to eat just a plain carrot on it's own. Hummus is a dip made from Chick Peas. Chick peas are full of protein, low in fat and taste nice. Therefore, hummus tastes nice! Pairing these two items is a match made in heaven. I wasn't a big hummus fan myself until a few days ago, and I've been having this for the last two days straight!
Just get baby carrots or cut slices from big carrots and dip in the hummus (about 2 tablespoons) - enjoy!
You can also eat with cucumber slices, pepper slices and even grapes - yes, I tried it with grapes and it's nice!


3. Apple and Peanut Butter

source

Many people will look at this and think 'Ergh.. Peanut butter is NOT healthy' - let me tell you: it is! Actually, I once told somebody about this and they said 'How can peanuts mixed with Butter be healthy, have you lost your mind?!' - well, actually peanut butter is not peanuts and butter - contrary to the name! It is actually roasted peanuts blended to a spread-like consistency. Therefore, no saturated fat is in natural peanut butter! It is all the good unsaturated fats! These improve cholesterol levels and lower risk of heart disease. Though, peanut butter is calorie dense, so 1tbsp with an apple is perfect! Peanut butter tastes incredible! Apples are also a natural teeth whitener, so eat up for those pearly whites!

Those are my 3 favourite go-to snacks! I hope you have a healthy, tasty and happy New Year!

What are your favourite snacks? 

Woman Body Image - We are being fooled..

Hello!

I hope you had an amazing Christmas, spend some quality time with family and friends and ate great food - the most wonderful time of the year!

Now that Christmas is over many people are getting on the 'I want to work off the food' and 'I want to look like the girl on the magazine'… and I saw a video shared the other day and thought it might be of interest to you… A 5 minute video that can make you realise reality...

So yes, be aware that even Cindy Crawford doesn't look like Cindy Crawford! I didn't mean this to be a really serious post - just something as 'food for thought'!

So, I hope you stay happy, healthy and feel good about yourself no matter what the media/anyone else says!

Wishing you an amazing year ahead!

Did the video make things clearer for you? What did you think? Comment below! 

L'Oreal Skin Perfection Micellar Solution Review - Makeup Remover

Hello!

I hope you're having a great time with parties all around, as the New Year brings! With parties comes MAKE UP and with makeup comes great responsibility!

Obviously, by that I mean that we need to remove that makeup - and that's is great responsibility! If your skin is anything like mine, you may notice that as you apply more makeup, especially things such as foundation, your skin gets worse and worse when it's 'naked'. So to prevent those unwanted spots and break outs, we need to remove makeup as best as we can… therefore, makeup remover comes in!

I bought the L'Oreal Skin Perfection 3-in-1 Micellar Solution (woah, that's a mouthful!) and thought I'd give you a review. Put it this way: this is my second bottle!

I love this product. It removes makeup without any stinging solution and it's simple to use. Unlike skincare wipes where I feel you're tugging against your skin and not being very gentle, this Micellar Solution feels like water and sort of glides makeup off from your skin.
To use, I apply this to a cotton pad or two and start from my eyes, hold the pad there for a couple of seconds and swipe away the makeup. Then I use the pad around my face to remove everything else. Simple! Okay, on days you're wearing a LOT more makeup, you may need to go over your face twice!  But, that's basically it!

Have you heard of Bioderma? If not, it is a french product which is said to be very similar to this. It is described as 'like water' which means it is very light on the skin! I would agree to say that the L'Oreal is like that too! However, Bioderma has a much bigger price tag and is hard to find, whereas L'Oreal is quite the opposite.

So, I guess that the L'Oreal may not be AS great as Bioderma, for a price of just over £4, and just over £3 if you're like me and buy it on sale, there is nothing to complain about!

Like I said earlier, if you're one for being gentler on your skin and are using skincare wipes (which I find also leave my skin a little red later too, due to friction - which could possibly give premature wrinkles) maybe you should give this a go - you may love it more!

What do you use to remove your makeup or tone your skin?